Question:
Which dr. helps you build the case for a panni?

Plastic surgery is way in the future for me, as I still have 150-200 pounds I'd like to lose, but I'm already getting rashes and irritation from the hanging skin on my stomach. I'd like to start making note of all of this with a doctor now, so hopefully the insurance coverage will be easy to obtain. Which doctor do you discuss this with? Your personal physician, your surgeon, or the plastic surgeon directly? I just want to be prepared when the time comes. Thanks.    — Tracy L. (posted on October 2, 2001)

October 2, 2001
Well I can speak from my recent experience that it wasn't that hard to get it approved. I took pictures of a really bad rash that I got, I also went to my PCP and she treated me for the rash and I asked her to document that the rash was from the hanging skin. I went to her twice for two different rashes and she put them in the chart notes. It was embarrassing at first but then I told her that I would need these notes to submit to insurance and she was very supportive. She also saw me for lower back pain a few times and she stated that it was from the excess weight in the front apron. My WL surgeon had also documented it but I truly believe that the ins was more swayed by the PCP. I also sent pictures of the hanging skin standing straight up and leaning forward to show the overlapping. It was embarrassing but well worth it. I am now 1 month post op from my TT and insurance approved it immediately. Best wishes to you...
   — Sherri M.

October 3, 2001
Your plastic surgeon, a dermatologist, and your PCP are perhaps the three best people to have records from while you try to get approved. I, personally, had no problems with approval for an abdominoplasty.
   — Suzanne B.

February 15, 2002
I just won my appeal for a panni. I am scheduled for March 11. Very exicted. I submitted letters from myself, primary care Dr., Gyn, plastic surgeron. I would be happy to share copies with you if you want. My e-mail is [email protected]. Try to get your rash, sores, etc. documented with a Dr. that can write you a letter to submit with the plastic surgeron's letter when the time comes. Sincerely, Cheryl
   — Cheryl H.